1-Phenylpiperidin-4-ol is primarily utilized in the synthesis of various pharmaceutical compounds. It serves as a key intermediate in the production of drugs targeting the central nervous system, particularly those with antipsychotic and analgesic properties. The compound's structure allows it to interact with neurotransmitter receptors, making it valuable in the development of medications for mental health disorders and pain management. Additionally, it is employed in research settings to study receptor binding and drug-receptor interactions, aiding in the discovery of new therapeutic agents. Its versatility in chemical reactions also makes it a useful building block in organic synthesis for creating more complex molecules.